All the little things we do everyday creates our lifestyle and shapes who we are. We become what we think, do and consume repeatedly on a daily basis. That is why we want to make sure we are adopting the habits that align with who we want to be and create the life we want. I think I will never stop talking about the importance of routines and habits. And the most important and transformative ones are related to self care and our wellbeing. These are the things that will help you become the best version of yourself, keep you motivated and productive, and start/end each day with a strong, positive mindset.

1
MAINTAIN A MORNING & NIGHT TIME ROUTINEHow we start our day sets the tone for the entire day. We want to start the day feeling calm, strong and organized, not rushed and hectic. Same thing goes for how we end our day. Here are simple things you can do: Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. When you wake up drink a glass of warm lemon water. Take your probiotics. Do a 10 minute meditation and/or movement. Doing these things will give you a happy and healthy start to your day. (Find more tips and ideas in this blogpost.)

2
START A MINDFULNESS PRACTICE
I ignored the mind-body-soul connection for the longest time and I paid for it. When I first moved to the USA I spent a couple years feeling so out of place and lost. Everything changed when I read the book “Power of Now” and started learning about mindfulness and meditation. This combo completely transformed my life, career and relationships. If you don’t have one already, I’d highly recommend starting a mindfulness practice. It doesn’t have to be a woo woo, out of this world experience. It can be as simple as sitting in silence and breathing, listening to guided meditation, journaling, or walking in nature. Do something everyday to silence the (mean) girl in your head.

3
MOVE AND EAT MORE INTUITIVELY
My favorite way to connect with myself is movement. It helps me get out of my mind and get into my body. It shifts my mood. I love my Pilates flows and long walks in the morning. I am not a big workout person, so these low-impact, mindful movements are great options. No matter which type of workouts you love, always listen to what your body craves. Nourish yourself with delicious, healthy food. Choose being intuitive over being rigid or following diet rules. Drop the labels and go with your gut. You know yourself the best – not some nutritionist or health “guru” on Instagram.

4
ADOPT A SIMPLE, MINIMALIST LIFESTYLE
Adopting a more minimalist and simple lifestyle can be so rewarding. I’m talking about both our physical and mental space. From clothes to workouts, people you surround yourself with to the shows you watch. I think this is a process, not an overnight task. That’s why I call it a lifestyle. You can start simplifying your life with these steps: declutter your house, give away old clothes you don’t wear anymore, be a re-user, ask yourself, “Do I really love/need this?” before buying anything new, invest in quality items you can use for a long time versus getting trendy items.

5
GET INSPIRED AND BE IN THE FLOW
Do more things that make you forget checking your phone. Keep your mind inspired. When do you feel alive the most? What lights you up? Maybe it’s getting out of the apartment and moving your body to get ideas flowing and refresh your mind. Your answer is unique to you but here are some activities that can help you feel inspired: planning a fun day somewhere new, deep conversations with friends, watching a feel-good movie, reading biographies of inspiring people, listening to an inspiring podcast. A few of my current favorite podcasts are Talking Tastebuds, Ten Percent Happier, Marie Forleo, Super Soul.

Which one of these habits are already a part of your routine? What are your favorite ways to get in some self care time? Share in the comments. :)
xx
​Hande